The Cruz campaign called the victory a signal that "conservatives will coalesce around the Texas senator, rather than split their vote among various candidates."

"North Carolina is an important state for the Republican primary, and our campaign will continue to build our team in the Tar Heel state to ensure our campaign is competitive," Cruz said in a statement posted by his campaign organization.

"The tea party will be instrumental in helping to organize and elect a strong constitutional conservative and I am honored to receive their support."